Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why This Easy Recipe Works
- The Story Behind This Classic
- Perfect For Weeknight Dinners
- A Lighter Take on a Hearty Favorite
- Comfort Food With a Crispy Twist
- Tips for Success
Key Takeaways
This Baked Eggplant Parmesan is an easy recipe that’s loaded with flavor and texture. It’s a great option for those looking for healthy yet satisfying dinner recipes. Layered with crispy eggplant, rich marinara, and gooey cheese, it delivers the essence of comfort food with a wholesome twist.
Why This Easy Recipe Works
At Betty Cooks, we love transforming traditional comfort food into easy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor. This baked version of Eggplant Parmesan skips the frying without losing the crunch, making it a go-to choice for wholesome meals. Plus, it’s one of those easy recipes you can make without a fuss, even on busy weeknights.
The Story Behind This Classic
Growing up in an Italian-American household, Eggplant Parmesan was always a Sunday staple. But as life got busier, Betty realized the need for easy healthy recipes using ground beef, chicken, or even eggplant. This version came to life from a desire to enjoy those cherished family meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect For Weeknight Dinners
If you’re searching for dinner recipes that hit all the right notes—cheesy, crispy, and comforting—this baked eggplant dish delivers. It’s one of those easy fast cheap dinners that looks fancy enough for guests, yet simple enough for a regular Tuesday night.
A Lighter Take on a Hearty Favorite
This dish doesn’t just fall under the umbrella of easy recipes—it’s also a healthier alternative. By baking instead of frying, you get all the flavor without the excess oil. It’s ideal for anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals without sacrificing taste. Even vegetable farming fans will appreciate this garden-fresh use of eggplant.
Comfort Food With a Crispy Twist
Nothing beats a hot dish of Eggplant Parmesan bubbling out of the oven. With layers of marinara and melty cheese, it’s the perfect example of wholesome meals dinners can be. It’s also a great way to use items like butter swim biscuits easy recipes 12 tomatoes-style marinara sauce and homemade breadcrumb blends.
Tips for Success
Let your eggplant slices sit with salt to draw out moisture—it’s worth the extra step. Use a high-quality marinara sauce to enhance the flavor. And don’t be shy with the cheese! For more easy recipes and dinnertime inspiration, check out Betty Cooks for reliable kitchen favorites.
Easy Baked Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- Salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Lay eggplant slices on a baking rack, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs and milk together. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each eggplant slice in the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Place on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer baked eggplant, sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat layers, ending with cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
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